There could be an FA Cup fairytale at the Pirelli Stadium on Saturday afternoon following the news Billy Sharp has come out of retirement to play for AFC Rushden & Diamonds against Burton Albion in the first round.
The 40-year-old announced his retirement from professional football after an illustrious 22-year career that ended with a superb hat-trick for Doncaster Rovers against Peterborough United in the last game of the 2025/26 season.
Sharp's decision to hang up his boots lasted just over a month after he made the decision to sign for the Northern Premier League side and play for them in their historic FA Cup tie after it was confirmed striker James Clifton would be suspended for Saturday's clash.
The then Sheffield United striker in netted nine times in 16 appearances during a loan spell at the original Rushden & Diamonds back in 2005 and will be desperate to find the back of the net for the phoenix club - especially considering the fact he is currently on 299 career goals.
There are expected to be 2,000 travelling fans for the game against the League One hosts and it promises to be a great atmosphere as the Diamonds aim to make more club history.
Billy Sharp FA Cup Burton Albion v AFC Rushden & Diamonds odds
(Odds will display when the markets are available)
